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SBAM offers simple approach to energy solutions for small business owners

DETROIT, June 15, 2017 -- The Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) is working with Consumers Energy and DTE Energy to provide enhanced energy services to small businesses across Michigan through a new "SBAM Energy Solutions" program, being unveiled at today's SBAM Annual Meeting & Small Business Expo in Lansing.

"We're Michigan's only business organization with full-time, dedicated employees devoted to helping entrepreneurs manage energy needs, and SBAM Energy Solutions provides members with easy access to simple solutions," said SBAM President and CEO Rob Fowler.

SBAM Energy Solutions will take the guesswork out of connecting with the utilities, and offer small business owners opportunities to save money and participate in programs they may not have even known were available. Dozens of SBAM members have already participated in a pilot launch and are already seeing results.

"I discovered a few services that we weren't fully utilizing and some changes that we need to make to be more energy efficient," said Cynthia Kay, owner of Cynthia Kay & Co. Media Production in Grand Rapids, MI. "My time with the SBAM Energy Solutions team was well spent."

"Like all businesses, our customers want to save money on energy bills, but are already juggling so many priorities," said Jerry Norcia, DTE Energy president and COO. "The collaboration between SBAM, DTE and Consumers Energy gives customers a go-to resource for energy questions and challenges – so they can focus on running a successful business. Our work not only impacts the bottom line - it gives customers peace of mind knowing they have the best energy solutions possible for their business."

SBAM members have the opportunity to engage with three energy specialists and discuss the best options for their small businesses.

"Our Consumers Energy small business team has worked hard to help business owners save money on their utility bills through the Energy Solutions program," said Garrick Rochow, Senior Vice President of Distribution and Customer Operations. "We look forward to providing even more small business owners the tools they need to efficiently run their business, save money and grow our state's economy."

For details on how small business owners can utilize the SBAM Energy Solutions program, visit www.sbam.org/energy.